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Just Watch and Get Over It!

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In the ongoing journey of “Doctor Who” with Russell T Davies resuming as showrunner, some principal actors are standing firm against persistent criticisms from fans who claim that the series has prioritized ideological messages over compelling narratives, which they find problematic.

In a recent chat with The Standard, I – as a fervent fan – found myself drawn to the insights shared by the talented Millie Gibson, the captivating actress embodying the role of Ruby Sunday in our beloved series. She courageously addressed the stirring debates surrounding the show’s apparent political leanings head-on.

Gibson recommends you take a look at this show; it’s filled with genuine beauty and follows the journey of two inseparable companions across the cosmos. So, give it a try and let its charm sweep you off your feet!

She brushed off suggestions that the show “Doctor Who” has changed its style or subject matter to cater to political tendencies, contending that such narrative approaches have consistently been a part of the series’ history.

She asserted that in one particular Doctor Who episode (which I believe features David Tennant alongside Martha), they encounter William Shakespeare. In this episode, as she recalls, Shakespeare makes a comment about himself, something along the lines of “Ah yes, Shakespeare is quite attractive.” This, in essence, encapsulates the unique charm of Doctor Who.

In her recent interview with Radio Times magazine, Varada Sethu, who’s part of the TARDIS team soon, agrees with Gibson that the backlash against Doctor Who indicates the show is heading in the right direction, implying she’s not alone in her views.

She mentioned that there have been a few references to Doctor Woke, but in her opinion, it’s a sign that we are on the right track when we receive such comments.

Sethu explained, “Being ‘woke’ signifies being open-minded, forward-thinking, and compassionate towards others. As for Doctor Who, at its heart lies kindness, affection, and doing what is morally correct.

As a passionate Doctor Who fan, I’ve noticed that my comments here echo some thoughts expressed by Russell Davies himself. Recently, he gracefully dismissed online criticisms during a BBC Radio 2 special called “Doctor Who: 20 Secrets from 20 Years“.

Davies stated, “It seems someone is constantly bringing up the topic of inclusivity. There are also critics online labeling us as promoting diversity and ‘wokeness,’ with various messages and themes…And frankly, I have no patience for this. I don’t have a moment to spare. To me, what you might call diversity, I simply view as an open invitation.

Supporters of the series view these statements as a call to action for a contemporary, diverse interpretation of “Doctor Who.” However, longtime viewers and critics contend that the program has strayed from its original enchanting storytelling, focusing instead on explicit social commentary and self-praising casting choices.

The episodes with exaggerated antagonists such as Maestro and unusual musical segments have garnered a mix of opinions, whereas the online chatter about the series’ progression has been more critical than enthusiastic.

Despite the team behind Doctor Who continuing to defend its current course, the figures suggest a contrasting narrative – one that not even the TARDIS could avoid.

After Russell T Davies took over again and initiated the Disney+ co-produced reboot, “Doctor Who” has seen its lowest ratings in its 60-year span. Recent episodes in the current season have consistently failed to meet expectations, drawing audiences significantly smaller than typical viewership — a marked difference compared to the show’s peak under Davies’ initial tenure with David Tennant.

In the UK, it’s particularly concerning that the BBC, which depends on taxpayer funding, is experiencing a decline, as viewers who pay compulsory TV licenses are turning away. This suggests that the BBC’s focus on signaling moral values and storytelling centered around identity isn’t striking a chord with a wider audience.

In media circles, defensive remarks from actors might garner praise, but it’s the viewers who actually foot the bill. Unfortunately, currently, those viewers seem to be abandoning The Doctor.

Regardless of its powerful global recognition and partnership with Disney+, the show ‘Doctor Who’ has been facing difficulties in achieving the viewership it once had, putting more pressure on Davies and his team to make successful creative decisions.

The response from viewers, either welcoming the new direction or continuing to disengage, could determine if this recent “Doctor Who” regeneration signals a comeback… or a swan song.

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2025-05-11 00:14

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